Not too long ago, a number of Design Build companies started to emerge in the DFW metro area. “Design Build” is a term that is widely used in the remodeling and residential construction industry, but we noticed that a lot of these newer companies had a different understanding of what Design Build means than we did. For many, it simply means selecting materials and providing a “budget allowance” estimate. Often, these budgets are too small, and when the work begins, the homeowners are caught off guard by a lot of surprises and left with cost and time overages, as well as unforeseen inconveniences.
/ Archives for Home DesignChange Orders: What they are, how they work and what we do to minimize them
Remodeling and construction projects always begin the same way: when we agree to take on a project for a client, we estimate how much the project will cost and how long it will take to complete. If the client agrees to these terms, we get to work.
Occasionally, during the remodeling journey, we must use a change order to adjust our initial estimate or contract. A change order is a formal request to change the amount of time and/or funds that are needed to complete a project.
Aging in Place
Today we are inundated with all kinds of information on TV and social media about the nature of our spaces as we age. If you are over the age of 50 or you have aging parents in your home, these are issues you have probably heard about and may even be considering for yourself. We see terms like retirement community options, Universal Design, Aging in Place, and ADA compliance thrown around frequently in the conversation. But what does it all really mean?
Melinda’s Blueberry Blog
Each week, I go to my local Whole Foods Market to buy healthy fruits and vegetables for my family. On one particular Saturday right after Amazon purchased Whole Foods, I decided to venture in and take a look to see what was different. Upon my arrival, I glanced around and everything still looked the same. I noticed a wider variety of additional products and different growers that I was not familiar with. On this particular Saturday they were promoting a special from one of their new blueberry suppliers. The price was fantastic! Who could turn down $7.00 for two large boxes of fresh farm picked blueberries. Especially since my favorite blueberries ran about $4.99 for the same size package. The new boxes of blueberries looked exactly the same as my usual brand. Keep in mind, I have been purchasing the same grower’s blueberries nearly every week for the past 20 years. I was feeling adventurous and the sale of the Whole Foods stores made me think that Amazon would be just as discriminating in what product they allowed to be sold in their store. I was so excited about the great buy I quickly snatched up the two boxes and couldn’t wait to get to home to enjoy them.
Five Remodeling Projects That Will Significantly Increase the Value of Your Home
Which home improvement projects or remodel undertakings really pay off in the long run? That can be a tricky question. While the giant task of upgrading your home in any area needs to be a statement of your own personality and preferences, it’s also worth considering the types of projects and style trends that will lead to the most return on investment and increase the value of your home.
